Non-Toxic Baby: What Every Mama Needs to Know (Part 2)

Hey Mama, welcome back! 💛 If you’ve been following along, last week in Part 1, we tackled the big essentials—non-toxic clothing, mattresses, and nursery furniture—to help create a safer space for your little one.

This week, we’re diving even deeper into the world of non-toxic baby care, focusing on skincare, bath time, and feeding essentials. Because what goes on our babies and what goes into their tiny bodies matters just as much as the environment they sleep in.

I know how overwhelming it can feel when you first start peeling back the layers of hidden toxins (trust me, I’ve been there!). But you’re not alone, and I’m here to help make this journey easier, one simple swap at a time. So, grab your favorite cup of tea, get cozy, and let’s get into Part 2 of Non-Toxic Baby 101—where we strip away the chemicals and focus on clean, safe, and natural choices for your little one. 💕

Safe Skincare & Bath Products

I’ve found that when it comes to baby skincare, less is more. Your little one’s skin is delicate, absorbing what you put on it—and unfortunately, many mainstream baby lotions, shampoos, and soaps contain hidden toxins. But don’t worry, Mama—I’ve got you covered. Here’s what to look for (and avoid!) when choosing safe, non-toxic skincare for your baby.

The Dirty Three: BPA, Phthalates & Parabens

These chemicals may sound like something out of a science lab, but they’re lurking in everyday baby products. Let’s break them down – I used to confuse these too (still do sometimes if I’m honest!), and I had no idea how dangerous they were when I first started my non-toxic journey!

🌿 BPA (Bisphenol A)
Ever heard of BPA-free baby bottles? That’s because BPA, a chemical used in plastics, is a known endocrine disruptor. While it's mostly found in food containers, it can also sneak into baby skincare through packaging, leaching into the lotion or wash you’re using on your little one. Studies suggest BPA exposure could impact brain development, behavior, and hormone balance—things no mama wants to mess with.

🚫 Phthalates
Pronounced THAL-ates, these chemicals help fragrances stick to the skin and make plastics more flexible. But they’re bad news—phthalates are linked to hormone disruption, developmental issues, and even asthma. The worst part? You won’t always see them on labels because they hide under the word "fragrance." If a product isn't clearly labeled phthalate-free, it’s best to skip it.

❌ Parabens
These synthetic preservatives (look for methylparaben, propylparaben, or anything ending in “-paraben”) prevent mold growth in lotions and shampoos. But they also mimic estrogen in the body, raising concerns about hormone disruption and potential long-term effects on reproductive health. Babies are extra sensitive to endocrine disruptors, so it’s best to go paraben-free.

How to Choose the Best Baby Skincare

Now that we know what to avoid, let’s talk about what to look for instead. Finding safe, non-toxic baby skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming—once you know the key ingredients to steer clear of, choosing the right products becomes so much easier. Here’s how to make sure your little one’s skin stays nourished, protected, and toxin-free from day one. 💛

💡 Stick to Fragrance-Free. If it smells like lavender, vanilla, or “baby fresh,” it probably contains hidden phthalates. Look for unscented or essential oil-based alternatives.

🧐 Read Labels Like a Pro. Avoid products with long, complicated chemical names. If you see “fragrance,” “parfum,” “PEGs,” or “parabens,” put it back on the shelf.

✅ Check the EWG Skin Deep Database. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) ranks skincare products based on their safety. Search their database (ewg.org/skindeep) to find the safest lotions, shampoos, and soaps for your little one. I personally rely on EWG for everything – from checking my local tap water to finding safe sunscreen and cosmetics. If you’re interested, you can use EWG’s interactive map here to see what’s in your water here. They also have Consumer Guides for so many things but I would recommend the Consumer Guide for Parents and Caregivers – there’s so many resources in it!

EWG interactive water map: https://www.ewg.org/interactive-maps/chromium6_contamination/map/

Consumer Guide: https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides/for-parents-and-caregivers

🥑 Go Simple. Some of the best baby skincare comes straight from nature—like organic coconut oil for moisturizing or fragrance-free castile soap for gentle cleansing. The fewer ingredients, the better! I love Earth Mama’s Simply Non-Scents Baby Wash – it’s unscented, gentle castile soap and I have used it on my daughter since she was about two months old! She has sensitive skin and has never had a reaction to the Earth Mama products we use on her.

💦 Look for Safe Preservatives. If a product needs a preservative, safer options include potassium sorbate, ethylhexylglycerin, or radish root ferment instead of parabens.

♻ Choose BPA-Free Packaging. Even the purest lotion can be contaminated if it’s stored in BPA-laden plastic. Opt for brands that use glass or BPA-free containers whenever possible.

Taking care of your baby’s skin shouldn’t be complicated or stressful. Stick with natural, non-toxic options, and you’ll be protecting your little one from unnecessary chemical exposure. Because let’s be real—our babies deserve the safest start possible. 💕

The Truth About Fragrance: What’s Really in That "Lavender" Scent?

Fragrance is everywhere, Mama—even in products we wouldn’t expect. That fresh, powdery “baby scent” may seem harmless, but what’s actually in it? Caring for your baby’s skin goes beyond just lotions and washes—it also means being mindful of hidden toxins in everyday products, especially when it comes to fragrance.

We all love a cozy, good-smelling home and that fresh-out-of-the-bath baby scent, but as we’ve just discovered, many lotions, candles, and detergents are loaded with chemicals we don’t want anywhere near our little ones—or ourselves! Let’s take a closer look at what’s really behind those sweet-smelling products and why fragrance-free is often the safer choice.

Most scented products contain synthetic fragrances, which can be a cocktail of hundreds of undisclosed chemicals—including hormone-disrupting phthalates. If you see the word fragrance or parfum on a label, that’s a red flag. Companies aren’t required to disclose what’s inside, meaning you could be exposing your baby (and yourself) to chemicals linked to allergies, asthma, and even hormone disruption.

Is Lavender Causing Early Puberty in Girls?

Here’s where it gets even more concerning. Lavender—a scent we associate with calm and relaxation—is being linked to early puberty in girls.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that lavender-containing products were associated with premature breast development in young girls. Symptoms disappeared when the products were no longer used. (Source)

The Endocrine Society also warns that lavender and tea tree oil may act as endocrine disruptors, mimicking estrogen in the body and interfering with normal hormone function. (Source)

And here’s the kicker—synthetic lavender (which is in most commercial products) is found in everything: lotions, baby wash, dish soaps, laundry detergents, cleaning sprays, candles, even trash bags!

So, what can we do?

How to Choose Safer Scents

🌿 Go Fragrance-Free. The safest bet? Skip the scents altogether. Babies don’t need fragrance in their skincare, and unscented products reduce exposure to hidden toxins.

🌱 Use Real Essential Oils (With Caution). If you love natural scents, choose products that use verified essential oils—but be mindful of lavender and tea tree oil in kids’ products.

🚫 Avoid Anything That Just Says "Fragrance" or "Parfum." If the label doesn’t list exactly what’s making it smell good, assume there are hidden chemicals inside.

🔥 Ditch Synthetic Candles & Air Fresheners. Swap paraffin candles and plug-ins for beeswax candles or an essential oil diffuser with clean, single-source oils.

💡 Check the EWG Database Before You Buy. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) ranks skincare and household products based on their safety. (Search products here). Seriously, you can find so much data and resources on the EWG websites, it’s such a huge help when you’re doing the non-toxic lifestyle.

Our homes should smell fresh and clean without exposing our babies to hormone-disrupting chemicals. The more we learn, the better we can protect our little ones from unnecessary toxins. Let’s choose safer, cleaner options—because our kids deserve nothing less. 💕

Chemical-Free Feeding Supplies

We’ve tackled skincare and fragrance, but now let’s talk about something just as important—what our babies eat from. Because let’s be real, Mama, it’s not just about the food itself. The bottles, pacifiers, and storage containers we use matter just as much, and unfortunately, many of them contain hidden toxins that can leach into our little one’s milk and purees.

“BPA-free” labels might seem reassuring, but not all plastics are created equal, and many BPA alternatives (like BPS and BPF) may be just as harmful. So, let’s break it down and make sure every sip and bite is as safe and chemical-free as possible. 💛

BPA-Free (and Beyond): Choosing the Safest Baby Bottles

Choosing Safe Baby Bottles: Why "BPA-Free" Isn't Enough

We've all seen the BPA-Free labels slapped on baby bottles, but here’s the catch—many companies swapped BPA for BPS (bisphenol S) and BPF (bisphenol F), which are just as concerning. These chemicals, like BPA, are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your baby’s hormones. Studies show that BPS and BPF may be just as harmful, if not worse, than BPA (source).

So, what’s the best choice for baby bottles? Stick with non-toxic, truly safe materials.

Best Non-Toxic Baby Bottles (No Plastic Needed!)

✅ Glass Bottles – Naturally free of chemicals, glass bottles are a safe, durable option. Just be mindful of drops (many come with silicone sleeves for grip and protection).

✅ Stainless Steel Bottles – Lightweight, shatterproof, and non-toxic. These grow with your baby and can transition into sippy cups or water bottles with the right attachments.

✅ Food-Grade Silicone Bottles – Soft, squeezable, and free from harmful chemicals—but always ensure they are truly 100% medical- or food-grade silicone.

Here are some trusted, non-toxic baby bottle brands that get it right:

• Comotomo Silicone Baby Bottles – Made of 100% medical-grade silicone, these bottles are designed to mimic the feel of breastfeeding.

• Evenflo Glass Bottles – Affordable and classic, Evenflo’s tempered glass bottles are easy to clean and completely plastic-free.

• Haakaa Glass Baby Bottles – Made from borosilicate glass, which is thermal-shock resistant, with soft silicone nipples for comfort.

• Pura Kiki Stainless Steel Bottles – These bottles grow with your child, converting from bottle to sippy cup to straw cup.

By choosing non-toxic baby bottles made from truly safe materials, you're ensuring that every sip your baby takes is free from harmful chemicals. Because what goes into their little bodies should be as pure as possible. 💕

Pacifiers: What’s in Your Baby’s Soother?

While we’re on the topic of what our babies are putting into their mouths, let’s talk pacifiers. They’re a lifesaver for soothing a fussy baby, but most pacifiers are made from plastic, synthetic rubber, or even materials laced with BPA, PVC, or phthalates—none of which belong anywhere near your baby’s mouth. If your little one is going to use a pacifier,  make sure it’s 100% safe and non-toxic.

Best Non-Toxic Pacifier Options

✅ Natursutten Natural Rubber Pacifier – Made from one single piece of natural rubber, free from BPA, phthalates, and artificial coloring. No joints or crevices means no hidden bacteria buildup!

✅ HEVEA Natural Rubber Pacifier – Sustainably made from pure, biodegradable natural rubber with a breathable cut-out design for extra comfort.

✅ BIBS Natural Rubber Pacifier – A Danish favorite made with 100% natural rubber latex and designed to mimic the feel of breastfeeding.

✅ MAM Silicone Pacifier – A great alternative for those who prefer medical-grade silicone over rubber, plus orthodontically designed to support natural oral development.

✅ FRIGG Natural Rubber Pacifier – Stylish and made from 100% natural rubber, free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates, with a modern Scandinavian aesthetic.

✅ 100% Natural Rubber or Medical-Grade Silicone – Pacifiers made from natural rubber (like Hevea or Natursutten) or medical-grade silicone are the safest choices.

🚫 Avoid Plastic Pacifiers – Many conventional pacifiers contain PVC, phthalates, or synthetic latex, which can leach harmful chemicals.

When choosing a pacifier, go for natural materials and one-piece designs to avoid hidden bacteria traps.

Organic Baby Food & Safe Storage

We all want to give our babies the best start in life, and what goes into their little bellies matters. But it’s not just about choosing organic—it’s also about storing food safely to avoid chemical leaching.

Best Organic Baby Food Brands

If you’re not doing whole foods with your baby, here are a few great organic baby food options to choose form. The EWG has a Baby Food Score webpage that can be really helpful when you’re researching baby food brands for yourself. The EWG also rates pureed baby food and pouches too! https://www.ewg.org/foodscores/products/?category_group=Baby+Food

https://www.ewg.org/foodscores/products/?category=Baby+Food+-+Pureed+Baby+Food+%26+Pouches

✅ Cerebelly – Developed by a neurosurgeon mom, Cerebelly offers veggie-packed, brain-boosting organic purees with 16 key nutrients for early development. No added sugars or junk!

✅ Amara Organic Foods – Uses a unique drying process to lock in nutrients while keeping their purees free from preservatives and fillers.

✅ Beech-Nut Organics – A well-known name in baby food, but their organic line is free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, and pesticides.

I personally enjoy cooking and baking and love spending time in the kitchen trying new, baby-safe recipes for my daughter so I don’t buy baby food for her, but that’s my preference and privilege. Not everyone has the time to cook every meal or enjoys cooking, so the above foods are great options! When you are shopping for food (yours or baby’s) look for the USDA Organic label, which guarantees baby food free from pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and GMOs.

Safe Baby Food Storage Options

Making the swap from plastic food storage to glass or silicone is one the easiest non-toxic swaps you can make. It’s one of the first that many people make when they start this journey “down the rabbit hole”. Here are a few options for food storage to consider if you haven’t yet made the swap!

✅ Moonkie Silicone Baby Food Containers – 100% platinum silicone, free from BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates. Perfect for freezing and reheating homemade baby food.

✅ Sage Spoonfuls Glass Baby Food Jars – Eco-friendly glass storage containers that are freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.

✅ INKA Sustainable Baby Food Containers – Leak-proof and BPA-free, made with sustainable materials and perfect for on-the-go feeding.

✅ WeeSprout Glass Baby Food Jars – Airtight 4oz glass containers for fresh and easy baby food storage.

✅ VITEVER Glass Baby Food Containers – Leak-proof glass jars with portioned lids to keep baby food fresh longer.

🚫 Avoid Plastic Storage Containers – Store food in glass jars or stainless steel to prevent chemical leaching.

Feeding time should be about nourishing your baby, not worrying about hidden toxins. With a few simple swaps, you can ensure mealtime is as safe as it is nutritious.

By making conscious choices about what soothes, feeds, and nourishes our babies, we’re setting them up for a healthy, toxin-free start. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few simple swaps can make a huge difference in reducing your baby’s exposure to unnecessary chemicals. And hey, what’s better than peace of mind knowing that what touches their little bodies and goes into their bellies is as clean and safe as possible?

You’re One Step Closer to a Non-Toxic Baby Routine!

Mama, if you’ve made it all the way here—thank you for taking the time to learn and make informed choices for your little one. 💛 I know how overwhelming this journey can feel at first, but every small step you take truly matters. From swapping out skincare products to choosing safer feeding essentials, you’re creating a healthier, toxin-free start for your baby, and that’s something to be proud of!

If you haven’t checked out Part 1 yet, be sure to go back and read it—we covered non-toxic clothing, mattresses, and nursery furniture to help you build a safe, cozy space for your baby. You can find it [here] (insert link).

And as always, I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram @theuntamedmamalife—what are some of your favorite non-toxic baby products? Let’s keep learning and growing together, one conscious choice at a time. 💕

Until next time, stay wild, stay untamed, and keep trusting your mama instincts. You’ve got this! ✨